Texas police officer Elijah Garretson shot and killed by fugitive
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A Texas police officer was shot and killed in the line of duty while trying to capture a wanted fugitive, according to authorities.
Copperas Cove Police Officer Elijah Garretson, a 27-year-old New Hampshire native, was fatally wounded Jan. 10 while trying to arrest a fugitive who was wanted for participation in organized criminal activity and failed to appear in court, Texas State Senator Pete Flores, whose district includes Copperas Cove. he said in a Facebook post.
According to Flores, Garretson and two other officers fought with the suspect, 26-year-old Jamison Cavazos, who was trying to catch him.
Authorities said Cavazos then shot Garretson during the arrest attempt and fled the scene, later dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound as officers approached the second location after a lengthy negotiation attempt. Authorities found two handguns in his possession, Flores said.
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Officer Elijah Garretson was shot and killed in the line of duty on January 10 while attempting to arrest a fugitive wanted for participation in organized criminal activity who had failed to appear in court. (Copperas Bay Police Department)
Garretson was later transported to a hospital and later died from his injuries.
“This officer risked his life trying to protect public safety and paid the ultimate price,” said Flores, chairman of the Texas Senate Criminal Justice Committee. “This loss is a tragic reminder of the courageous sacrifice our law enforcement officers face every day.”
The Texas Rangers are conducting an investigation into Garretson’s death.
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The body of fallen police officer Elijah Garrison was taken to Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, Texas, on January 13, 2026. (FOX7)
Garretson grew up in New Hampshire and later joined the U.S. Army, FOX 7 reported; where he served at Fort Hood and rose to the rank of Sergeant before leaving in June 2024.
Following his separation from the military, Garretson entered the police academy and graduated as the Academic Honor Graduate of his class in June 2025. He was also celebrated for helping save the life of a fellow student who had a heart attack. According to FOX 7.
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Mourners attend the funeral of deceased police officer Elijah Garrison on January 13, 2026, at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, Texas. (FOX7)
It is stated that he left behind his wife and 5-year-old daughter.
The Copperas Cove Police Department did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
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“Our thoughts are with his loved ones, his colleagues at the Copperas Cove Police Department, and everyone affected by this tragedy during this difficult time,” New Hampshire State Police said. he said in a Facebook post. “He will never be forgotten.”
